Sludge Profiling a Lagoon

Mike Baumgartner
Wastewater Specialist

By: Mike Baumgartner, ARWA Wastewater Specialist

Profiling is a way of determining how much
sludge is in your wastewater pond. The results
of sludge profiling can be used as a tool to better
manage biosolids. Better management of the biosolids
will improve the water quality of your lagoon as well as
help to keep the system in compliance with ADEM and
EPA regulations. It is important to remember that the
original lagoon design was intended to meet effluent
quality standards much less stringent than today's
permits. The effluent TSS and percent removal was
much higher than the new permits we see today. The
standards can still be met but not if the lagoon biosolids
get out of hand.

When wastewater lagoon sludge volumes reach 15%,
operational problems begin but may not be visibly
noticeable. After sludge levels reach 33%, it is nearly
impossible to constantly remain in compliance. After
sludge reaches 50%, the lagoon will not function
properly. Some of the operational problems associated
with excessive solids are: TSS carry over into the
receiving stream, Short circuiting and low D.O. levels
which may lead to septic conditions, Increased BOD,
Increase in Algal growth especially blue – green algae
which is toxic.

What can be done to better manage your biosolids?
Dredging, Aeration or Bio-Augmentation ( adding
Bugs ). Which is the best? In my opinion, aeration is
the best means in controlling biosolids. Notice I said
controlling. Obviously, if the lagoon is 30 to 50 percent
full of sludge, you will need to dredge. Once completed,
it is like starting over. However, in order to best control
the solids, maintaining adequate oxygen levels will
provide the needed environment for aerobic bacteria to
break down the biosolids.